It became an uncomfortable moment for Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif when Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi maintained silence on supporting Pakistan on the Kashmir issue in front of the press. Arriving in Pakistan on Monday for a three-day visit, the Iranian President discussed bilateral relations with PM Sharif and addressed a joint press conference. Sharif exerted efforts to prompt a statement from Raisi on Kashmir in favor of Pakistan but faced disappointment.
During the joint press conference, Sharif attempted to equate Iran's stance on Gaza with the Kashmir situation, expressing gratitude to Raisi, 'I thank you and the people of Iran for raising your voices for Kashmir.'
However, Raisi appeared uncomfortable and avoided discussing Kashmir in his speech. Instead, he mentioned Palestine and declared Iran's solidarity with those fighting oppression, particularly the Palestinian people.
Iran aims to balance India-Pakistan relations
Raisi's reluctance to address the Kashmir issue was a disconcerting situation for Sharif. It signifies that Iran is maintaining a delicate balance between India and Pakistan, fostering cordial relations with India.
Both nations have a history of diplomatic and trade ties, and have engaged in dialogue amidst the ongoing conflicts in Gaza. Last November, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a conversation with President Raisi regarding the situation in Gaza, where both sides supported an immediate ceasefire.
The Indian embassy stated last year that Iran and India have a history of meaningful relations. 'India and Iran share centuries of historical and cultural ties. Our relationship, built on the strength of our historical and civilizational bonds, continues to grow.'
In January, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar visited Iran where he met with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. The talks included discussions on violence in Palestine as well as bilateral and multilateral relations among BRICS nations.
As Iran holds diplomatic ties with both India and Pakistan, maintaining a neutral stance on Kashmir is crucial for Iran.
Raisi's visit to Pakistan, a move to mend relations
Earlier this year, tension surfaced in Iran-Pakistan relations, with both countries accusing each other of harboring extremist groups. Iran conducted airstrikes on alleged militant bases in Baluchistan province, prompting Pakistan's retaliation in Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan province. However, both countries were successful in de-escalating tensions shortly after.
Months after the attack, Iranian President Raisi's visit to Pakistan is seen as an effort to improve bilateral relations. Following the elections on February 8, Raisi became the first foreign leader to visit Pakistan.
